Hyundai Genesis-based crossover coming 2017/2018?

Hyundai is rumoured to be considering a large seven-seat crossover based on the Genesis executive sedan in order to boost flagging sales blamed on a lack of SUVs in its lineup, according to Reuters.

The company is reportedly looking into an internal proposal made last year for a flagship that will sit at the top of its crossover range – which currently only consists of the Tucson, short- and long-wheelbase Santa Fe and Veracruz (which is expected to be discontinued by the end of next month). A new B-segment Creta will slot in at the other end during the second half of this year.

The new Tucson and recently-revised Santa Fe are currently Hyundai’s only two crossovers

The car in question is aimed at riding on the Genesis’ wave of popularity – sales have reportedly surged 15% between January and May to nearly 15,000, compared to the 2% gained by Hyundai as a whole. It’s arrival, however, is only pegged at sometime within the next two to three years, which indicates a 2017/2018 launch.

The article quotes sources within Hyundai as saying that the company’s reticence regarding this project – which has yet to be green-lit, apparently – stems from its poor track record in building a large SUV and concerns about its brand appeal in the upper echelons of the segment. There are also fears that a spike in fuel prices will again cause the market to shrink.

Hyundai is introducing the Creta B-segment crossover later this year

“We are considering developing premium, large SUVs based on customers’ needs,” Hyundai told Reuters. “We plan to respond to the fast-changing market centred around SUVs by beefing up our SUV line-up.”

Hyundai’s US sales in May have slumped by 10% over the previous year, the biggest drop in four years and well behind the industry-average 2% growth. Its shares have also fallen 18% this year, the worst performer among major global manufacturers.

After trying to pursue a career in product design, Jonathan Lee decided to make the sideways jump into the world of car journalism instead. He therefore appreciates the aesthetic appeal of a car, but for him, the driving experience is still second to none.

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